Support for Repeal of Authorization of Use of Military Force

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. BIGGS. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 256, the repeal of the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002. For too long, Congress has abrogated its Constitutional obligation to declare war. The founding fathers knew that the executive branch was the most prone to war. That is why they gave Congress the power to declare war. By assigning this power to Congress, our founders ensured that issues of war would be properly debated before our brave service members are sent into harm's way.

We have allowed Presidents of both parties to disregard the proper Constitutional order and engage in forever wars. This AUMF has been in place for nearly 20 years and the situation in Iraq is vastly different than at its onset. Allowing the AUMF to remain in place will not make America safer. However, it will allow for the President to keep us in a state of perpetual war.

Repealing the AUMF will not endanger our troops overseas. However, repealing the AUMF will begin the process of restoring Congress to its proper role of deciding when our country goes to war. This Congress, or any future, must be a part of any decision to reengage in hostilities in Iraq.

In Congress does not find the courage stand up to the President and say, ``No Mr. President, we decided when to go to war,'' then thousands of young lives will be lost in unconstitutional wars. It is time for Congress to reassert itself over war powers and restore the proper Constitutional order.

I urge my colleagues to stand up for the Constitution. To stand up for Congress by supporting H.R. 256. I urge my colleagues to vote yes.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source